Symptoms
- Vibration that started right after hitting a pothole or curb
- Visible wobble in the wheel when spinning it by hand
- Slow air leak from that specific wheel
- Visible dent or ripple in the rim edge
Likely causes
- CommonImpact with a pothole or curbA hard enough impact can permanently deform the wheel, especially on lower-profile tires with less cushioning.
- PossibleAluminum alloy wheel cracking under impactAlloy wheels can crack rather than just bend, which is more serious.
What to do
- Inspect the rim closely near where it contacts the tire for visible dents, ripples, or gouges.
- Spin the wheel by hand while jacked up and watch for visible wobble.
- Check tire pressure, since a bent rim often causes a slow leak at the bead.
- Have a shop check the wheel on a balancer, which can reveal bends invisible to the eye.
- Minor bends can sometimes be professionally straightened; more significant ones require wheel replacement.
- Do not ignore a bent rim that's also leaking air or causing steering vibration.
Tools and parts
Replacement wheel/rimSearch: “wheel rim for [your car model]”
When to call a pro
Have a wheel shop assess whether the rim can be straightened or needs replacing; a cracked alloy wheel should always be replaced, not repaired.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.